Kanpur, the Manchester of the East has a more vibrant culture than you thought

The hub of the industrial revolution in India, a budding, fast developing, ever expanding city now, Kanpur is probably the last city you think of when you think 'culture' or 'heritage'.

Often times, in a city that has had such a monumental past, the history and the essence can get lost amidst all the hectic activities of life. Today, we take a look at some of the places that still manage to captivate us in their old world charm and inform us about Kanpur from the bygone era.

British Era

During the British era, Kanpur was the city that flourished the most- as much as a city can under the rule of another country. The industrial hub in India began here and even today, Kanpur's industries and tanneries are high in demand and are alive and kicking at full swing.

In fact, a major chunk of the city is built along the site of the 1857 massacre, a milestone step towards India's independence. Perhaps this is a reminder as to where we have risen from. From penury and being ruled by British overlords to now- a city that's fit to compete with some of the fast developing cities around the world.

Nana Rao Park is one place that serves as a monumental testament to the lives that the freedom fighters laid down for their country. If you're in the city, do pay your respects here.

The Industrial Revolution

Set along the banks of the Holy ganges, it only made sense that this poignant city becomes the soul, heart and mind of industrialization in the country. As history dictates, settlements around rivers tend to be the strongest and yield the greatest results over time.

The case was no different for Kanpur and the city literally spearheaded a new era into the lives of the Indian man. Think, for a moment, where we would have been if not for the industrial revolution? Sure, there were other hubs of the same around India, but none thrived like 'Cawnpore' did.

A Pilgrimage Site

A city along the Ganges is something that's rather spiritual in itself. Since Kanpur is right next to it, people often make pilgrimage visits here and all of that is complemented by the many temples that have stood the test of time.

With five shrines for different deities and purposes, people flock to visit the city and receive blessings from the almighty. The temples themselves are major tourist spots as they are architectural marvels that are a sight for sore eyes.

Knock Knock

Well, most of the die hard Kanpurites would probably already know most of this, but for the uninitiated, looking to visit Kanpur, this should give you some insight into what the city is all about.